Fashion is a global industry that encompasses designers, manufacturers, retailers and marketers. Its vast network of businesses supports the livelihoods of millions of people worldwide. The fashion industry also plays a pivotal role in influencing market trends and consumer purchasing decisions. Our fashion choices communicate a variety of messages, from social status and wealth to cultural norms and values, mood and emotion, group membership and life stages.

It is often assumed that changes in fashion reflect societal changes or that they are driven by the financial interests of fashion designers and manufacturers. However, many research findings indicate that internal taste mechanisms are also at work. Fashion can be seen in the way we dress, but it is equally important in the way we speak, write and behave.

SYNONYMS: 1. mode; fad; rage; vogue

The term “fashion” is usually used to refer to a prevailing custom or style of dress, etiquette or socializing. It may be distinguished from “fad” by the fact that a fashion is usually more permanent, with a greater emphasis on comfort and function. The word is derived from the French word for style or mode, and has come to be synonymous with the term vogue in American English. Fashion is a way of communicating with others through clothing and it enables us to express our personalities in a unique way. Hence, it is one of the most important aspects of human culture. It helps people to stand out from the crowd and it also helps them in earning respect from their peers.